FOLLY 

AN    OPERA 

BY 

MR.    GAY 

BEING  THE   SEQUEL  TO 

THE    BEGGAR'S    OPERA 

NOW    FREELY   ADAPTED 
BY 

CLIFFORD    BAX 


NEW  YORK 
MOFFAT  YARD  &  COMPANY 


v 


XX/-UA 


POLLY 

AN     OPERA 


POLLY 

AN    OPERA 

BY 

MR.    GAY 

BEING   THE   SEQUEL  TO 

THE    BEGGAR'S    OPERA 

NOW    FREELY    ADAPTED 
BY 

CLIFFORD    BAX 


NEW  YORK 
MOFFAT  YARD  &  COMPANY 


Printed  in  Great  Britain 


APOLOGY 

In  perusing  the  lyrics  of  this  play  the  reader  will 
be  distressed  by  many  graceless  irregularities  of 
rhythm.  A  long  apprenticeship  to  the  craft  of 
making  words  fit  music  has  convinced  me  that  the 
more  precisely  they  follow  the  musical  pattern  the 
more  disagreeable  they  are  to  read.  I  trust  that  the 
reader  whose  ear  is  offended  by  a  line  that  is  too  long 
or  by  one  that  slips  away  tooflowingly  will  remember 
that  the  lyrics  are  intended  to  be  sung. 

C.  B. 


2055203 


POLLY 


DRAMATIS  PERSONS 


MEN:— 


DUCAT 

MORANO 

VANDERBLUFF 

LAGUERRE 

HACKER 

CULVERIN    . 

CAPSTERN    . 

CUTLACE     . 

POHETOHEE 

CAWWAWKEE 

FIRST  FOOTMAN 


a  wealthy  coffee-planter 
Macheath    in    disguise 


>  pirates 


an  Indian  Chief 

his  son 

attending  on  DUCAT 


SECOND  FOOTMAN    attending  on  DUCAT 


WOMEN  :- 


POLLY  PEACHUM 

JENNY  DIVER 

MRS.  DIANA  TRAPES 

MRS.  DUCAT 

Two  SLAVE-GIRLS  of  DUCAT'S  household 

SUPERS  :- 

INDIANS,  PIRATES,  WOMEN  OF  THE  TOWN 

SCENE  : — An  Island  in  the  West  Indies 


ACT    I 


ACT     I 


SCENE  : — Front,  an  open  space  in  hard  sunlight. 
Entrances  right  and  left. 

Back,  a  verandah  of  DUCAT'S  house.  It  is  in  deep 
shadow.  Centre  back,  a  doorway,  covered  by  a  cur- 
tain of  reeds  and  beads,  from  the  house  onto  the 
verandah. 

DUCAT  is  discovered  in  a  chair  on  the  verandah, 
snoring.  By  his  side,  a  small  table  on  which  stand 
a  bottle  of  rum  and  two  mugs. 

Enter  left  MRS.  TRAPES. 


SCENE   I 
DUCAT  and  MRS.  TRAPES 

Mrs.  Trapes.  Fie,  fie,  Mr.  Ducat — asleep  ?  .  .  .  Shall 
I  give  him  a  kiss  ?  He  might  call  me  a  forward  minx. 
.  .  .  And  yet  what  is  sweeter  than  a  kiss  ?  .  .  . 
[seeing  the  bottle}  Ah — Jamaica  rum  !  Tis  the  one 
commodity  that  reconciles  me  to  these  barbarous 
parts,  [drinks  a  mugful]  Now — wake  up,  Mr.  Ducat, 
wake  up  ! 

Ducat.  [Waking].     Eh  ? — [rising  and  bowing]  Mrs. 

Trapes — your  servant. 

Mrs.  Trapes.  For  shame,  Mr.  Ducat — asleep  at  the  very 
hour  of  appointment  ? 

Ducat.  Sure,    Madam,    sleep  is  an   innocent   and 

gentlemanly  occupation. 

Mrs.  Trapes.  It  depends.  Had  you  gentlemanly  dreams? 
Fie,  fie  ! 


io  POLLY  [Acx  I. 

Ducat.  Not  so  loud,  I  beseech  you.     My  wife  is 

in  the  house  there,  and  she  is  very  uneasy  and  vexa- 
tious upon  account  of  my  visits  to  your  establishment. 

Mrs.  Trapes.  Your  visits  !  In  truth,  Mr.  Ducat,  you  are 
doing  yourself  small  credit  by  abstaining  so  long  from 
the  charms  that  I  can  supply.  Tis  now  a  half  year 
since  I  landed  on  this  island  and  opened  my  Academy 
for  Young  Gentlewomen;  yet  I  vow  you  have  not 
been  near  it  beyond  a  dozen  occasions.  Though  you 
were  born  and  bred  in  the  Indies,  as  you  are  a  subject 
of  Britain  you  should  live  up  to  our  British  customs. 
You  are  the  wealthiest  man  in  the  island  and  should 
set  an  example  to  the  rest.  Your  luxury  should 
distinguish  you  from  the  vulgar.  You  cannot  be  too 
expensive  in  your  pleasures. 

Air  I 

The  manners  of  the  great  affect ; 

Stint  not  your  pleasure  : 
If  conscience  had  their  genius  checked, 

How  got  they  treasure  ? 
The  more  in  debt,  run  in  debt  the  more, 

Careless  who  is  undone  ; 
Morals  and  honesty  leave  to  the  poor, 

As  they  do  in  London. 

Ducat.  I  never  thought  to  hear  thrift  laid  to  my 

charge.  There  is  not  a  man,  though  I  say  it,  in  all 
the  Indies  who  enjoys  the  necessaries  of  life  in  so 
handsome  a  manner. 

Mrs.  Trapes.  There  it  is  now.  What  man  of  wealth  in 
England  would  talk  of  the  necessaries  of  life  ?  Indeed, 
'tis  the  same  with  all  of  us.  Whether  we  can  afford 
them  or  no,  we  must  have  superfluities.  As  to  woman, 
now — why  look  you,  Mr.  Ducat,  a  man  has  what  we 
may  call  the  mere  necessaries  in  a  wife. 

Ducat.  He  has — and  more. 


ACT  I.]  POLLY  ii 

Mrs.  Trapes.  But  a  genteel  man  must  have  the  luxuries 
of  the  tender  passion.  Any  bailiff,  Mr.  Ducat,  can 
eat  boiled  mutton  but  only  the  gentry  can  wash  it 
down  with  Canary. 

Ducat.  Yet  I  must  own,  Ma'am,  that  I  still  affect 

my  boiled  mutton.  Moreover,  she  is  put  into  a  pas- 
sion by  the  mere  mention  of  you  and  your  London 
hussies.  She  is  even  now  being  cupped. 

Mrs.  Trapes.  Your  wife,  sir,  cannot  forever  resist  the 
advance  of  civilisation,  and  you  must  instruct  her. 
Now  too  is  your  time  ;  for  I  have  a  fresh  cargo  of 
ladies  just  arrived. 

Ducat.  Indeed,  Mrs.  Di,  I  am  somewhat  fargone 

in  years. 

Mrs.  Trapes.  There  it  is  again.  In  London,  let  me  tell 
you,  the  vulgar  sort  pursue  pleasures  in  the  flush  of 
youth,  but  our  great  men  are  modishly  profligate  when 
the  zest  has  left  'em. 

Air  II 

Ducat.  What  can  wealth 

When  we're  old  ? 
Youth  and  health 
Are  not  sold. 

Mrs.  Trapes.      WTien  love  in  the  pulse  beats  low, 

(As  haply  it  may  with  you) 
A  girl  can  fresh  youth  bestow 

And  kindle  desire  anew. 
Thus,  numb'd  in  the  brake, 
Without  motion,  the  snake 

Sleeps  cold  winter  away  ; 
But  in  every  vein 
Life  quickens  again 

On  the  bosom  of  May. 

Ducat.  I  am  eager  to  behave  like  a  gentleman,  Mrs. 

Trapes,  but  if  I  should  bring  the  hussy  into  my  house 
t'will  go  hard  to  make  my  wife  think  like  a  gentle- 
woman upon  the  subject. 


12  POLLY  [Acx  I. 

Mrs.  Trapes,  [wiping  her  eyes]  Lud  !  In  this  world  how 
scantly  is  enterprise  rewarded  !  'Tis  an  ungrateful 
world.  I  had  thought  to  impart  some  polish  and 
enlightenment  to  these  outlandish  colonies  ;  but  there 
it  is — you  prefer  to  live  in  darkness.  Who  could  have 
supposed  that  a  gentleman  of  your  position  would  so 
far  scorn  the  fashion  as  to  dote  upon  his  wife. 

Ducat.  Nay,  Mrs.  Trapes,  now  you  are  too  hard 

on  me.  You  cannot  think  me  such  a  clown  as  to>be 
really  in  love  with  my  wife  ?  We  are  not  so  ignorant 
as  you  imagine.  Why,  I  married  her  in  a  reasonable 
way,  only  for  money. 

Air  III 

He  that  weds  a  beauty 

Soon  will  find  her  cloy. 
When  pleasure  grows  a  duty, 

Farewell  love  and  joy. 
He  that  weds  for  treasure 

(Though  he  hath  a  wife) 
Hath  chose  a  lasting  pleasure 

In  a  married  life. 

Mrs.  Trapes.  [beaming]  Now,  sir,  your  natural  good 
sense  has  conquered  your  old-fashioned  theology. 
And  consider,  Mr.  Ducat,  if  your  wife  should  be  un- 
reasonable, 'twere  an  easy  stratagem  to  pass  off  the 
girl  as  a  handy  wench  in  the  kitchen. 

Ducat.  Indeed,  my  wife  looks  for  a  servant. 

Mrs.  Trapes.  Then  your  pleasures  may  march  with  hers. 
And  the  girl  has  a  bearing  so  demure  as  only  to  be 
fitted  for  the  sacred  circle  of  a  good  home. 

Ducat.  Stay  !    I  trust  she  can  play  her  part  ? 

Mrs.  Trapes.      You  will  find  her  pert  enough  on  occasion. 


ACT  I.]  POLLY  13 

Ducat.  I  must  live  in  the  fashion  though  it  ruin 

me. 

Mrs.  Trapes,  [taking  two  bags  of  money  from  him]  You 
will  never  regret  these.  But  alack-a-day,  no  bargain 
could  ever  thrive  with  dry  lips.  A  glass  of  liquor 
will  float  any  project — of  business  or  love. 

Ducat.  Mrs.  Di — a  mug  of  rum  ! 

[THEY  drink]. 

Ducat.  Zounds  !    Who  am  I  to  go  in  fear  of  my 

wife  ?  These  ten  years  I  have  been  Colonel  of  our 
Militia.  I'll  in  to  her  at  once,  and  bid  her  make  ready 
for  that  new  maid. 

[Exit,  into  the  house]. 

SCENE   II 
MRS.  TRAPES 

Mrs.  Trapes.  [Helping  herself  again  to  the  rum]  To  the 
memory  of  poor  dear  Mr.  Peachum  !  How  he  loved 
strong  liquor.  Why,  he  hated  water  worse  than  a  mad 
dog  :  and  there  he  was,  hang'd  in  an  April  shower. 

[Enter  right  POLLY]. 

Bless  my  eyesight  !  What  do  I  see  ?  This  rum  is  of 
rare  potency  or  that  is  indeed  Miss  Polly  Peachum. 
Mercy  upon  me,  child,  what  brought  you  this  side  of 
the  herring-pond  ? 

SCENE   III 
MRS.  TRAPES  and  POLLY 

Polly.  Here   indeed  is  a  strange  conjunction  of 

chances.  You  are  not  more  astonished  to  see  the 
unhappy  Polly,  madam,  than  she  to  discover  you  in 
this  island. 


14  POLLY  [Acx  I. 

Mrs.  Trapes.  'Tis  what  I  might  have  predicted,  feather- 
brained baggage  !  Why  must  you  sail  for  the  Indies 
when  your  beauty  might  have  ensured  you  a  fortune 
in  St.  James's  ? 

Polly.  Love,   madam,  and  the  distresses  of  my 

husband  compelled  me  to  follow  him.  From  the  hour 
of  his  transportation  I  hated  London  so  very  bad  that 
I  should  early  have  sighed  myself  into  a  decline. 
There  was  not  a  prison  that  I  could  pass  without  being 
afflicted  by  the  fondest  recollections  of  my  heroic 
Macheath. 

Air  IV 

She  who  hath  felt  a  real  pain 

By  Cupid's  dart, 
Finds  that  all  absence  is  in  vain 

To  cure  her  heart. 
Though  from  my  lover  cast 

Far  as  from  Pole  to  Pole, 
Still  the  pure  flame  must  last, 

For  love  is  of  the  soul. 

Mrs.  Trapes.  Think  no  more  of  Macheath,  Polly.  'Tis 
a  full  twelvemonth  now  since  he  ran  away  from  his 
master's  Plantation,  and  turned  pirate 

Potty.  O  intrepid  Macheath  ! 

Mrs.  Trapes.  Indeed,  what  puts  you  beyond  all  possi- 
bility of  redress,  is,  that  since  he  came  over  he  married 
a  transported  slave — and  she  is  gone  off  with  him. 

Polly.  Macheath  has  contracted  another  marriage  ? 

Mrs.  Trapes.  You  affect  surprise,  child  ?  Was  not  mar- 
riage a  habit  with  him  ?  Begin  at  once  to  look  for 
a  better  match.  But  say,  Polly — have  you  brought 
off  the  wherewithal  to  support  you  ? 

Polly.  I  brought  indeed  a  sum  of  money  with  me, 

but  my  chest  was  broke  open  at  sea  and  I  am  now  a 
wretched  vagabond  exposed  to  the  direst  calamity. 


ACT  I.]  POLLY  15 

Mrs.  Trapes.  Sure  never  anything  happened  more  luckily. 
Madam  Ducat  just  now  wants  a  servant,  and  one  so 
tight  and  handy  as  you  must  please  her.  Though  I 
promised  to  supply  him  with  a  girl  of  easier  nature, 
I  will  advise  Mr.  Ducat  that  you  are  an  honest  slut  and 
must  be  handled  with  respect.  As  for  Captain  Mac- 
heath,  you  may  safely  look  upon  yourself  as  a  widow  ; 
and  who  knows,  if  Madam  Ducat  should  tip  off,  what 
may  happen  ? 

Polly.  You  must  be  sensible,  madam,  of  the  respect 

and  awe  in  which  I  hold  you  ;    but  death  only  can 
extinguish  my  devotion  to  the  noblest  of  his  sex. 

Air  V 

Mrs.  Trapes.  Despair  is  all  madness : 

Banish  your  sadness. 

Fortune   attends   you   while   youth   is  in 
flower. 

Polly.  But  lest  I  be  harried, 

Say  I  am  married. 

Those  that  are  wedded  lie  less  in  man's 
power. 

Mrs.  Trapes.  Hush,  Polly.  Step  into  the  shade  while  I 
settle  the  matter  to  our  advantage. 

[Enter  DUCAT  from  the  house]. 


SCENE   IV 
MRS.  TRAPES,  DUCAT  and  POLLY 

Ducat.  You  have  fetched  her,  Mrs.  Di  ?   We  must 

be  brisk,  for  when  I  spoke  to  my  wife  she  was  overcome 
by  the  vapours,  and  you  may  count  upon  it  that  after 
the  vapours  there  is  always  a  storm. 


16  POLLY  [Acx  I. 

Mrs.  Trapes.  I  have  found  you  the  servant  whom  your 
wife  desired,  Mr.  Ducat, — her  name  is  Polly,  and  her 
nature  is  as  modest  as  her  name.  She  is  not  one  to 
serve  in  a  double  capacity.  I  hope,  sir,  you  had  not 
an  eye  to  that.  Consider,  Mr.  Ducat,  that  in  bringing 
this  girl  to  the  Plantations  I  have  run  great  risks.  I 
had  many  a  stratagem  to  inveigle  her  away  from  her 
parents — the  handsomest  honestest  couple.  There 
she  is  now.  Spy  at  her — as  choice  a  piece  of  beauty 
as  ever  you  laid  eyes  on,  and  she  is  in  most  charming 
rigging.  She  won't  cost  you  a  penny  in  clothes,  sir, 
at  first  setting  out. 

Ducat.  Joseph  could  not  have  refrained !     But  let 

me  hear  if  she  speaks  with  modesty  and  address. 

Mrs.f  Trapes.  Come,  Polly — this  gentleman  has  con- 
descended to  take  you  into  his  service. 

Polly.  I  am  infinitely  obliged,  sir,  for  your  charity 

to  a  girl  who  hath  only  sincerity  to  recommend  her. 

Ducat.  Withdraw,  Mrs.  Trapes.     I  must  acquaint 

this  child  with  my  wife. 

Mrs.  Trapes.  You  shall  find  her  most  amiable  and  de- 
serving :  and  who  knows — if  Madam  Ducat  should 
tip  off  ?  A  fine  gentleman  cannot  live  alone. 

[MRS.    TRAPES    begins   tb   walk   unsteadily 
toward  the  house]. 

Ducat.  Stay,   stay  !    Mrs.   Di  !    Would  you  walk 

into  the  storm  ?    This  way,  this  way. 

[HE  guides  HER  out,  left]. 

SCENE   V 
DUCAT  and  POLLY 

Ducat.  Be  cheerful,  Polly.     Your  good  fortune  has 

thrown  you  into  a  family  where,  if  you  rightly  con- 


ACT  I.j  POLLY  17 

sider  your  interest,  you  may  make  yourself  perfectly 
easy.  Those  eyes  of  yours,  my  dear,  are  worth  as 
much  to  any  woman  as  a  pair  of  African  diamonds. 

Polly.  As  I  am  your  servant,  sir,  my  duty  obliges 

me  not  to  contradict  you  :  yet  beauty  certainly  has 
ruined  more  women  than  it  has  ever  made  happy. 

Air  VI 

The  crow  or  daw  through  all  the  year 

No  fowler  seeks  to  ruin  : 
But  birds  of  voice  or  feather  rare 

He's  all  day  long  pursuing. 
Beware,  fair  maids ;     so  'scape  the  net 

That  other  beauties  fell  in  ; 
For  sure  at  heart  was  never  yet 

So  great  a  wretch  as  Helen  ! 

Ducat.  And  so,  Polly,  by  these  downcast  looks  you 

would  have  me  believe  you  don't  know  that  you're 
handsome.  A  kiss  on  those  lips  would  send  new  sap 
through  my  veins. 

[HE  kisses  HER]. 

Air  VII 

Ducat.  Let  me  have  my  humours:    let  me  please 

my  senses  ! 
Polly.  Never  shall  presumers  carry  my  defences. 

Ducat.  I  will  give  you  dresses 

Polly.  [Withdrawing}     Pray,  sir,  no  caresses  ! 

Ducat.  [Pursuing}     Ribbons  for  your  tresses 

Polly.  Not  the  merest  penny  one  ! 

Ducat.  What  once  I've  planned  I  must  fulfil. 

Polly.  Let  go  my  hand. 

Ducat.  Obey  my  will. 

Polly.  Now,  understand 


i8  POLLY  [Ad  I. 

Ducat.  I  tell  you  still 

Both.  I'll  not  give  way  to  anyone  ! 

Polly.  Tis  barbarous  in  you,  sir,  to  take  occasion 

of  my  necessities  to  insult  me. 

Ducat.  Is  this  language  fit  for  a  servant  ?    I  shall 

humble  these  saucy  airs  of  yours,  Madam  Minx  :  and, 
to  be  plain  with  you,  obstinate  slut,  if  you  refuse 
to  have  part  in  the  sport  for  which  I  purchased  you, 
there  is  heavier  work  awaiting  you  in  the  field  among 
my  planters. 

Polly.  My  freedom  may  be  lost,  but  you  cannot 

rob  me  of  my  virtue  and  integrity.  I  hope,  sir,  you 
will  let  me  receive  my  lady's  commands.  If  my  lady 
will  acquaint  me  with  my  duties,  gratitude  will  make 
me  study  to  please  her. 

[Confused  sounds,  off  right ;  pirates'  cries, 
shrieks  of  women,  etc}. 

Ducat.  Devil  fetch  me — what's  this  hurly-burly  ? 

[Enter  DUCAT'S  SERVANTS,  men  and  women, 
right}. 

SCENE  VI 
DUCAT,  POLLY,  DUCAT'S  SERVANTS 

Ducat.  What's  the  matter  ?    Is  the  house  o'  fire  ? 

Or  my  wife  in  a  passion  ? 

1st  Footman.  Oh  sir,  the  whole  country  is  in  an  uproar. 
The  pirates  are  all  coming  down  on  us.  If  the  militia 
be  called  out,  you  are  an  officer,  you  know.  I  hope, 
sir,  you  have  time  enough  left  you  to  fling  up  your 
commission. 

Ducat.  True,  true.     How  are  the  muskets  ? 

ist  Footman.      Rusty,  sir — very  rusty  and  peaceable. 


ACT  I.]  POLLY  19 

Ducat.  They  shall  preserve  my  honour.     We  can- 

not fight  with  unserviceable  weapons. 

2nd  Footman.  Sir,  the  Indians  are  in  arms,  and  they  re- 
quire you  to  stand  by  your  alliance  with  them.  There 
will  be  bloody  work  to-day. 

1st  Footman.      Bloody  ! 

2nd  Footman.  I  hope,  sir,  they  will  decide  the  issue  before 
we  have  had  time  to  get  ready. 

ist  Slave.  [Running  in]     The  pirates,  sir,  the  pirates  ! 

Good  lack-a-day,  what  will  become  of  us  poor  helpless 
women  ? 

2nd  Slave.          We  shall  all  be  ravished. 

ist  Slave.  Aye,  all  ravished,  Meg — all  of  us. 

Ducat.  Patience  is  a  virtue,  and  you  must  endure 

it  kindly. 

ist  Footman.  Sir,  sir — for  the  love  of  peace,  let's  find 
shelter  in  the  compound.  Your  courage  will  entirely 
undo  us. 

Ducat.  Presence  of  mind  is  as  necessary  in  danger 

as  courage  itself.     Our  allies  are  not  lacking  in  courage. 
We  will  show  them  our  presence  of  mind. 

[Noise  of  a   tom-tom,  off  left.    Enter,  left, 
CAWWAWKEE]. 

SCENE  VII 

DUCAT,  POLLY,  DUCAT'S  SERVANTS,  cringing,  and 
CAWWAWKEE 

Cawwawkee.  I  come  from  the  mighty  chief  Pohetohee, 
my  father,  my  chief  and  my  master ;  inviting  the 
English  Colony  to  stand  by  its  alliance  and  to  give  us 
help  both  in  counsel  and  in  arms.  The  pirates  are 
plundering  the  island.  Our  tribe  is  ready  for  battle. 
I  ask  you,  Colonel,  to  equip  your  men  and  to  lead  them 
into  our  camp. 


20  POLLY  [ACT  I. 

Ducat.  Does  Macheath  command  the  enemy  ? 

Cawwawkee.  Report  says  that  he  has  disappeared. 

Ducat.  [Pouring  out  rum]    Let  us  give  thanks. 

Cawwawkee.  Pardon  me,  noble  sir.  We  cannot  relish 
your  fire-water. 

[DucAT  drinks]. 

Polly.  [Aside]  Macheath  disappeared  !    Sure  there 

has  been  foul  play  ;  for  what  hero  has  ever  deserted 
his  companions  ? 

Cawwawkee.  The  pirates,  sir,  are  commanded  by  a 
mulatto — one  Morano — who  in  valour  and  ferocity 
is  true  brother  to  Macheath. 

Ducat.  When  we  have  put  our  arms  in  order  we 

shall  be  with  you.     Inform  your  master  that  he  may 
begin  the  battle. 

[Exit  CAWWAWKEE,  left]. 

Women — away  ! 

[Exeunt  FEMALE  SERVANTS,  into  the  house}. 

Fellows,  make  a  busy  show  of  polishing  the 
muskets  and  edging  the  swords  :  but  take  your  time, 
take  your  time. 

[Exeunt  FOOTMEN,  right}. 

SCENE  VIII 
DUCAT  and  POLLY 

Potty.  How  noble  and  candid  are  the  airs  of  these 

poor  savages ! 

Ducat.  Pooh,  child — they  must  be  civilised.     They 

are  so  rude  as   to  practise  neither  drinking  nor  gal- 
lantry. 

[Enter  MRS.  DUCAT  from  the  house]. 


ACT  I.] 


POLLY 


21 


SCENE  IX 
DUCAT,  POLLY  and  MRS.  DUCAT 

Mrs.  Ducat.       Lud,    husband — who   is   here  ?    The    new 
maid  ?   A  pox  on  your  beastliness.     I'll  not  endure  it. 

Ducat.  Come,  wife — use  her  civilly.     Indeed,  ray 

dear,  your  suspicions  are  very  frivolous  and  unreason- 
able. 

Mrs.  Ducat.       I'll  not  have  a  handsome  wench  in  the 
house.     They  are  always  saucy. 

Ducat.  Why,  are  not  you  yourself  a  proof  that  a 

handsome  woman  may  be  honest  ? 

Mrs.  Ducat.       Get  to  your  own  affairs,  and  leave  mine  to 
me. 

Air  VIII 

Ducat.  When  a  woman  jealous  grows, 

Farewell  all  peace  of  life  ! 

Mrs.  Ducat.       But  ere  man  roves,  he  should  pay  what  he 

owes, 
And  with  her  due  content  his  wife. 

Ducat.  'Tis  man's  the  weaker  sex  to  sway. 

Mrs.  Ducat.  And  ours  at  will  to  disobey. 

Ducat.  Tis  just  and  fit 

You  should  submit. 

Mrs.  Ducat.  But  not,  you  monster,  not  to-day ! 

Ducat.  Let  your  clack  be  still ! 

Mrs.  Ducat.  Not  till  I  have  my  will. 

If  thus  you  reason  slight, 
There's  never  an  hour 
While  breath  has  power, 
But  I  will  assert  my  right. 

I  had  sooner  die  on  the  spot  than  keep  an 
impudent  strumpet  under  my  nose. 


22 


POLLY 


[Acx  I. 


Ducat.  Accept  Miss  Polly  as  a  gift  from  me.     I 

have  great  affairs  on  hand  and  must  leave  her  to  your 
protection.     A  statue,  madam,  is  not  more  virtuous. 

[Exit  DUCAT,  right}. 

SCENE   X 

POLLY  and  MRS.  DUCAT. 
Polly.  Madam  Ducat — 

Mrs.  Ducat.  By  that  over-honest  look,  I  guess  you  to  be 
a  horrid  jade  :  an  entire  hypocrite  whitewashed  with 
innocence.  I  will  send  you  to  the  House  of  Correction. 
Had  you  any  shame  in  you,  creature,  you  would  now 
be  all  over  scarlet.  Not  a  word  of  contrition  ?  I 
perceive  that  you  are  very  ill-bred.  Have  you  never 
heard  that  politeness  costs  nothing — foul  confident 
slut  ?  Do  you  know,  madam,  that  I  am  Mr.  Ducat's 
wife  ? 

Polly.  As   your    servant,    madam,    I  think  myself 

happy. 

Mrs.  Ducat.       My  servant !    His  doxy,  you  mean. 

Polly.  Were  you  acquainted  with  my  misfortune, 

Madam,  you  could  not  insult  me. 

Air  IX 
Utterly  alone  and  forsaken, 

Thus  I  bid  adieu  to  joy. 
Now  that  all  I  cherished  is  taken, 

Nothing  more  can  fate  destroy. 
Never  look'd  the  wintry  ocean 
When  'twas  wracked  with  wild  commotion, 
Or  a  night  without  a  star, 
Black  as  my  misfortunes  are. 

Mrs.  Ducat.  Misfortunes  !  You  talk  as  though  you  were 
married. 

Polly.  Alas,  I  am  indeed  an  unhappy  wife. 

Mrs.  Ducat.       Married — you  ?    When,  where,  to  whom  ? 


ACT  I.]  POLLY  23 

Polly.  My  husband,   by  the  impetuosity  of  his 

nature,  incurred  the  displeasure  of  the  law.  He  was 
transported  to  this  island  ;  and  so  soon  as  I  knew  the 
destination  of  the  brig  that  carried  him,  I  made  haste 
to  follow  in  the  next. 

Mrs.  Ducat.  You  have  certainly  a  genteel  deportment, 
Mrs.  Polly,  but  if  I  learn  that  you  have  been  fibbing 
I  shall  lend  you  a  flick. 

Polly.  You  will  allow,  Madam,  that  I  have  shown 

candour.  Save  me  from  the  Plantations  :  for  I  vow 
I  will  never  submit  to  Mr.  Ducat's  embraces. 

Mrs.  Ducat.       Why,  Polly,  what  should  I  do  ? 

Polly.  In  conniving  at  my  escape  you  would  pro- 

tect your  reputation  and  be  avenged  upon  your 
husband. 

Mrs.  Ducat.  If  I  let  you  escape  now,  he  will  suppose 
that  you  got  off  in  the  confusion  of  their  preparations. 

Polly.  But  whither  should  I  flee  ? 

Mrs.  Ducat.  To  the  Indian  camp.  My  husband  will 
never  venture  there  :  'tis  too  near  the  battle.  The 
poor  savages  think  mighty  much  of  us  women,  but 
for  your  better  security  you  shall  put  on  a  man's 
habit.  I  will  lend  you  my  nephew's  uniform.  You'll 
cut  no  bad  figure  as  a  boy. 

Potty.  Indeed,  madam,  I  did  once  so  take  part  in 

a  masquerade.  How  shall  I  requite  such  kindness  ? 
May  virtue  be  my  protection,  for  I  feel  within  me 
hope,  cheerfulness  and  resolution. 

Mrs.  Ducal.  The  servants  are  mustering.  Come,  Polly 
— into  the  house  ! 

[Exeunt  into  the  house.    Enter,  left,  DUCAT 
and  his  Two  FOOTMEN,  with  weapons]. 


24  POLLY  [ACT  I. 

SCENE  XI 
DUCAT  and  the  Two  FOOTMEN 

Ducat.  What-a-devil  are  you  about,  putting  the 

weapons  in  order  so  briskly  ?  We  shall  be  hard-pressed 
to  avoid  the  battle. 

[Enter,  left  MRS.  TRAPES  and  Six  WOMEN 
OF  THE  TOWN]. 

SCENE  XII 

DUCAT,  FOOTMEN,  MRS.  TRAPES  and  WOMEN 
Mrs.  Trapes.     Mr.  Ducat,  as  you  prize  honour,  save  us  ! 
Ducat.  Heigh  ?   Mrs.  Trapes,  this  is  unwise. 

Mrs.  Trapes.  Men  will  be  men,  Mr.  Ducat ;  and  those 
pirates  are  marching  straight  to  my  Academy  for 
Young  Gentlewomen.  Give  us  your  protection. 

Ducat.  But  my  wife  will  never  admit  these  ladies. 

Mrs.  Trapes.  They  are  handy  wenches.  Enrol  them  on 
your  staff — as  cook,  housekeeper,  chambermaid, 
kitchen-girl,  scullery-wench  and  a  nurse  for  the  little 
ones  when  Madam  proves  more  obliging. 

Ducat.  Wounds,  Mrs.  Di,  'tis  flat  impossible.     I 

dote  on  a  tender  sensation — but  you  see  me  a  Colonel 
of  Militia,  accoutred  for  war  ! 

[Enter  MRS.  DUCAT  from  the  house}. 

SCENE  XIII 
DUCAT,  FOOTMEN,  MRS.  TRAPES,  WOMEN  and  MRS.  DUCAT. 

Mrs.  Ducat.  [To  MRS.  TRAPES]  Ah,  Mrs.  Trapes — / 
know  you  ;  and  if  anyone  knows  you  better  it  must  be 
the  turnkeys  of  London  ! 


ACT  I.] 


POLLY 


Air  X 

Mrs.  Ducat.       [To  DUCAT]. 

Unless  you  take  her  from  my  eyes, 
I'll  tear  her  all  to  pieces  ! 

Mrs.  Trapes.      [To  DUCAT]. 

Oh  sir,  you'll  never  jeopardise 
The  virtue  of  my  nieces  ? 

Mrs.  Ducat.       [To  MRS.  T.]     The  Scriptures  have  a  name 
for  you  ! 

Mrs.  Trapes.      [To  MRS.  D.]     But  you  they  were  afraid  of ! 

Mrs.  Ducat.       [To  DUCAT],     Now  quickly,  husband — up 
and  do ! 

Mrs.  Trapes.      [To  DUCAT].     Now  show  her  what  you're 
made  of ! 

Ducat.  Wife — get  into  the  house,  for  the  fighting 

will  soon  begin.     [To  MRS.  TRAPES].    Widow,  away! 

[Exit  MRS.    DUCAT   into  the  house.     Exit 
MRS.  TRAPES,  left]. 

Ladies,  I  offer  you  the  refuge  of  my 
verandah. 

[The  WOMEN  OF  THE  TOWN  huddle  together 
on  the  verandah]. 

Now,  lads  !  What — are  you  all  a-tremble  ? 
Summon  up  resolution  ;  and  since  music  is  the  fuel 
of  Mars,  let  forth  a  roaring  song.  Advance  !  I  will 
follow  instantly. 

Air  XI 

Footmen.  Despair  leads  to  battle,  no  courage  so  great. 

They  must  conquer  or  die  who've  no  retreat. 

No  retreat, 

No  retreat, 
They  must  conquer  or  die  who've  no  retreat. 

[Exeunt  right,  marching]. 


26  POLLY  [Acx  I. 

SCENE   XIV 
DUCAT  and  WOMEN  OF  THE  TOWN 

Ducat.  Ah,  Molly  Brazen — Mrs.  Slammekin — 

Betty  Doxy  !  There's  no  life  like  a  soldier's.  Come, 
hussies — fear  nothing.  I  will  be  your  protector  !  I 
will  stay  here  till  the  death  ! 

Air  XII 

Ducat.  A  woman,  when  war  oppresses, 

May  take  the  risk  upon  her 
Of  scattering  kind  caresses, 

And  fear  no  loss  of  honour. 
The  deed  that  we  hide  and  smuggle 

In  days  of  peaceful  spirit, 
When  nations  are  locked  in  struggle 

Is  ever  accounted  a  merit. 

Women  of  the  Town. 

The  years  of  our  youth  are  flying  ; 

They  do  but  flower  to  perish  : 
So  let  there  be  no  denying 

Of  all  that  youth  may  cherish. 
Though  sages  refuse  our  title 

To  laughter,  wine  and  kisses, 
Philosophy's  poor  requital 

For  what  the  philosopher  misses. 

AH.  Who'll  sing  me  an  air  ? 

I'll  bear  a  part  in  it. 
Come,  then — to  your  share  ! 
Pour  forth  your  heart  in  it  ! 
Who'll  trip  me  a  dance  ? 
I'll  join  in  your  jollity. 
Come — now  is  your  chance, 
Now  show  us  your  quality  ! 

(CURTAIN). 


ACT   II 


ACT    II 


SCENE  : — A  wild  part  of  the  island.    A  couple 
of  drums  with  jugs  and  mugs  upon  them. 

SCENE   I 
VANDERBLUFF,  and  PIRATES 

Air  XIII 

Cutlace.  A  pirate  either  must  sink — 

Chorus.  Or  drink, 

Cutlace.  And  mugs  of  pewter  were  made  to  clink. 

Chorus.  (With  a  clinkum,  clankum,  clinketty  clang  !) 

Cutlace.  So  give  'em  a  health  as  you  watch  them 

drown, 

For  that's  how  the  men  of  the  Crown — 
Go  down. 

Chorus.  (With    a    twinkum,    twankum,   twinkum, 

twankum,  twang  !) 

Cutlace.  Now,  when  your  wives  are  a  score — 
Chorus.  And  more  ! 

Cutlace.  You'll  toast  'em  all  when  you  step  ashore 

Chorus.  (With  a  clinkum,  clankum,  clinketty  clang  !) 

Cutlace.  But  though  I  am  partial  to  Peg  and  Ann, 

There's  none  of  'em  pleases  a  man — 

Chorus.  Like  Nan  ! 

(With    a    twinkum,    twankum,    twinkum, 
twankum,  twang  !) 

Vanderbluff.  Come  brothers,  a  sup  or  two  of  our  cag 
should  have  quickened  invention.  Damme,  if  we 
cannot  rouse  Macheath  from  his  melancholy,  we 
shall  lose  the  battle  and  our  lives. 


30  POLLY  [Acx  II. 

Laguerre.  Parbleu  !    Tis  the  woman  of  Macheath — 

she  ruin  him. 

Vanderbluff.  Aye,  brother — 'tis  that  Jenny  Diver  who 
has  undone  him.  Why  did  he  blacken  his  face  ?  Why 
did  he  assume  the  name  of  Morano  ?  'Twas  to  satisfy 
some  whim  of  that  gaudy  wench. 

Hacker.  Kill  the  slut. 

Pirates.  Aye — blood,  blood  ! 

Vanderbluff.  If  he  does  not  put  her  away — shiver  my 
timbers,  he'll  bring  the  name  of  pirate  into  disrepute. 
Our  profession  is  great,  brothers.  What  can  be  more 
heroic  than  to  have  declared  war  on  the  world  ? 

Culverin.  Ah,  brothers,  piracy  is  not  what  it  was. 

Laguerre.  When  he  change  his  name — peste  !   but  he 

change  his  nature.     Morano  have  no  more  the  heart 
of  Macheath. 

Capstern.  Who  can  cut  throats  on  a  diet  of  water, 

damme  ? 

Vanderbluff.  Brothers — if  he  don't  show  a  more  fero- 
cious temper,  split  me  !  I'll  not  follow  him. 

Pirates.  Down  with  his  woman  ! 

Vanderbluff.  He  must  drink,  like  a  Christian.  He  must 
kill  Jenny  Diver,  like  a  gentleman. 

Pirates.  Aye,  aye. 

Vanderbluff.  If  he  refuses,  let  him  rot  where  he  stands. 
Who  are  we  to  be  ruined  by  a  strumpet  ?  Let  Morano 
become  Macheath  once  more  or,  by  Hell's  Mouth,  I'M 
usurp  the  leadership  of  our  company. 

Pirates.  Mutiny,  mutiny  ! 

Vanderbluff.  No  woman  shall  ever  dilute  the  desperate 
nature  of  Theodore  Vanderbluff. 


ACT  II.]  POLLY  31 

Hacker.  Lieutenant,  you  shall  be  spokesman  for  the 

crew.     He  must  cut  his  wife's  throat  or,  blast  me  to 
powder,  we'll  mutiny. 

Vanderbluff.       If  I  lead  you  to  victory,  brothers,  I  shall 
claim  the  crown  of  Mexico. 

Laguerre.  Mais  non  !    Parbleu  !    the  Mexico,  she  is 

mine. 

Culverin.  A  frog  on  the  throne  of  Mexico  ?   You  shaH 

have  Guatemala. 

Capstern.  Devil  take  you  all,  Mexico's  my  share. 

Vanderbluff.  Yours  !    Vile  bottlewasher  ! 

Hacker.  Pimp ! 

Culver  in.  Scoundrel ! 

Laguerre.  Hypocrite ! 

[THEY  draw  their  cutlasses.     Enter,   right, 
MORANO  with  darkened  face}. 

SCENE   II 
PIRATES  and  MORANO 

Morano.  Hold,  gentlemen.     My  pistols  are  charged, 

and  I  have  never  yet  failed  to  pink  my  man.     Dismiss  ! 

Vanderbluff.       Captain,   we  do  not  like  this  chopfallen 
aspect. 

Morano.  Away  with  you  all  !    The  Indians  will  be 

down  on  us  in  a  twinkling.     Make  ready  for  battle. 
Your  lives  depend  on  my  meditations. 

[Exeunt  PIRATES,  right}. 

SCENE   III 
MORANO 

Morano.  The  great  man  is  never  understood.     They 

suppose  me  to  dote  upon  Jenny  ;    but  I'd  give  away 


32  POLLY  [Acx  II. 

Mexico  if  one  of  them  would  take  the  wench  off  my 
hands.  They  suppose  that  my  resolution  is  impaired 
by  the  heat  of  the  Indies  acting  upon  my  liver  ;  but 
a  gentleman  is  above  the  inconveniences  of  the  liver. 
Tis  love,  'tis  the  recollection  of  Polly,  that  destroys 
my  peace.  I  may  struggle  to  be  worthy  of  her  love, 
but  Jenny  and  these  rascals  will  not  permit  me  to 
become  virtuous.  Ah,  Polly — shall  I  drown  your  face 
in  a  mug  of  sack  ?  No,  no,  Macheath — refrain. 

Air  XIV 

How  greatly  is  a  rascal  curst ! 

How  profitless  reform  for  him  ! 
No  man  will  ever  see  him  thirst ; 

No  woman  let  him  flout  her  whim. 
What  pleasure  is  a  glass  to  me  ? 

What  care  I  for  the  wanton's  art  ? 
Thus,  Polly,  do  I  drink  to  thee, 

Dear  one,  who  still  enchains  my  heart  ! 

[Enter  VANDERBLUFF,  right]. 


SCENE  IV 
MORANO  and  VANDERBLUFF 

Vanderbluff.  Morano  !  What — drinking  ?  Then  you  have 
shook  off  your  fit  of  piety  ? 

Morano.  Lieutenant,  what  news  ? 

Vanderbluff.  The  Indians  are  in  alliance  with  Mr.  Ducat 
and  if  you  don't  sever  yourself  immediately  from  the 
blandishments  of  your  wife,  Captain — devil  fetch  me, 
we're  likely  to  cut  no  more  throats  till  the  Judgment 
Day. 

Morano.  Respect   my  wife,   Lieutenant.     She   will 

soon  be  Empress  of  Mexico — if  nobody  carries  her 
off. 


ACT  II.]  POLLY  33 

Vanderbhtff.  Shame  on  you,  Morano  !  While  a  man  is 
grappling  with  these  gilflirts,  he  runs  his  reason 
aground  ;  and  there  must  be  a  woundy  deal  of  labour 
to  set  it  afloat  again. 

Air  XV 

Though  woman  be  a  pretty  craft, 

She's  never  worth  pursuing. 
No  dainty  tackle,  fore  and  aft, 

Should  tow  a  man  to  ruin. 
Though  kisses  have  a  charm,  no  doubt, 

And  fondness  is  but  human, 
'Tis  better  far  to  go  without 

Than  have  too  much  of  woman. 

Excuse  my  plain-speaking,  Captain.  A 
boatswain  must  swear  when  he  spies  foul  weather 
ahead. 

Morano.  If  necessary,  we  can  retreat  to  our  ship. 

Vanderbluff.  To  our  woman,  you  mean  !  Blast  my  tarry 
toplights,  you  talk  like  one  yourself.  Shall  we  lose 
the  gold  of  the  Indies  because  our  leader  is  bewitched  ? 

[HE  draws  his  cutlass]. 

Morano.  Have  a  care,   Lieutenant.     Put   up  your 

cutlass,  for  I  shall  not  ruin  our  cause  in  a  private 
quarrel.  Beside,  you  may  be  useful. 

Vanderbluff.  Noble  Captain,  I  ask  pardon.  But  the 
crew  are  in  a  dangerous  frame,  and  if  you  do  not 
speedily  give  orders  for  the  battle  they  will  set  me  up 
in  your  place. 

Morano.  Thunder  and  lightning  !  Do  they  doubt  my 

courage  ?  Because  I  am  disguised,  do  they  forget  that 
I  am  Macheath  ?  This  is  too  much,  and  they  shall 
repent  their  disloyalty. 

[Enter  JENNY,  right}. 


34  POLLY  [ACT  II. 

SCENE  V 

MORANO,  VANDERBLUFF  and  JENNY 

Jenny.  Lieutenant,  I  am  confident  you  will  not 

show  yourself  so  ill-bred  as  to  incommode  the  farewell 
of  a  wife  to  her  hero. 

Morano.  [To  VAN.].    Withdraw. 

VanderUuff.       Morano,  we  shall  expect  you  immediately. 
[Exit  VANDERBLUFF,  right}. 

SCENE  VI 
MORANO  and  JENNY 

Morano.  Prepare  to  part  from  me,  hussy. 

Jenny.  O  Macheath,  I  cannot  endure  the  prospect 

of  widowhood.  If  you  should  fall,  how  could  I  earn 
a  living  ?  'Tis  not  here  as  in  London.  Here  they 
have  no  coffee-houses,  no  brandy-shops,  and  few 
pockets — that  are  worth  picking. 

Morano.  Dead  or  alive,  Jenny,   I  shall  no  longer 

court  the  pleasing  sensations  of  love. 

Air  XVI 

By  women  won 

We're  all  undone. 
Each  wench  hath  a  syren's  charms. 

The  lover's  deeds 

Are  good  or  ill 

As  whim  succeeds 

In  woman's  will. 
Resolution  is  lull'd  in  her  arms. 

Jenny.  [Wheedling].     Think  better  of  it,  husband. 

Let  us  lay  hold  of  the  treasure-chest,  escape  to  a  ship 
in  the  hurly-burly  of  battle,  and  get  away  to  England. 


ACT  II.]  POLLY  35 

Air  XVII 

How  many  men  have  found  the  skill 
Of  power  and  wealth  acquiring  ? 
But  sure  there's  a  time  to  stint  the  will, 
And  the  judgment  is  in  retiring. 
For  to  be  displac'd, 
For  to  be  disgrac'd, 
Is  the  end  of  too  high  aspiring. 

Morano.  Insinuating  angel !   How  can  I  dissolve  the 

bond  that  unites  us  ? 

Jenny.  Do  you  seek  to  be  rid  of  me  ?    I  declare, 

you  still  dote  upon  Mrs.  Polly.     Blister  her  ! 

Morano.  Why,   Jenny,   I  love  you  to  distraction. 

Was  it  not  entirely  for  you  that  I  have  disguised  my- 
self as  a  black — to  screen  myself  from  women  who 
laid  claim  to  me  wherever  I  went  ?  In  this  mask 
Polly  herself  would  not  know  me. 

Jenny.  Come  then — desert  the  crew.     Between  us 

we  can  carry  the  treasure-chest. 

Morano.  Why,  Jenny,  you  have  no  just  notions  of 

the  world. 


Air  XVIII 

Morano.     Shall  I  not  be  bold  when  honour  calls  ? 

You've  a  heart  that  would  upbraid  me  then. 

Jenny.        But  ah,  I  fear,  if  my  hero  falls, 

His  Jenny  shall  ne'er  know  pleasure  again. 

Morano.     To  deck  their  wives  fond  tradesmen  cheat : 
I  conquer  but  to  make  thee  great. 

Jenny.        But  if  my  hero  falls — ah  then 

His  Jenny  shall  ne'er  know  pleasure  again. 


36  POLLY  [ACT  II. 

Morano.      Though  it  may  be  hard  to  part  from  life, 
Harder  yet  it  is  to  part  from  thee. 

Jenny.        And  so,  as  I  am  thy  doting  wife — 

I  pray  you,  relent  and  linger  with  me. 

Morano.      Ah,  think  how  proudly  thou  shalt  show 
Upon  the  throne  of  Mexico  ! 

Jenny.        But  if  my  hero  falls — ah  then, 

His  Jenny  shall  ne'er  know  pleasure  again. 

Morano.  It  may  be  possible,  Jenny,  to  avoid  a  battle. 

Diplomacy  can  do  much. 

[Enter,  left,  LAGUERRE  and  HACKER,  leading 
POLLY  who  is  disguised  as  a  man.  Her^hands 
are  bound]. 


SCENE  VII 

MORANO,  JENNY,  LAGUERRE,  HACKER  and  POLLY 
Laguerre.  Morano,  Morano  ! 

Morano.  What  cheer,  lads  ?    A  prisoner  ? 

Hacker.  A  mere  stripling,  but  we  found  him  within 

a  furlong  of  the  Indian  Camp.     There's  no  question, 
he's  a  most  bloodthirsty  spy. 

Morano.  He  may  have  information  of  value. 

Jenny.  He  has  the  look  of  some  rich  planter's  son, 

and  will  bring  us  a  rare  ransom. 

Morano.  [To  POLLY].     Well,  boy — what  are  you  ? 

One  falsehood,  and  you  perish. 

Polly.  A    young   gentleman,    sir,    who   has   been 

barbarously  used  by  the  world.     I  came  to  the  Planta- 
tions in  the  hope  of  mending  my  fortune,  but  I  per- 


ACT  II.] 


POLLY 


37 


ceive  that  I  must  use  my  sword  in  this  conflict  either 
upon  the  one  side  or  the  other  :  and  since  I  have  a 
quarrel  with  Mr.  Ducat,  I  am  at  present  of  no  party. 

Air  XIX 

The  world  is  always  jarring  ; 

This  is  pursuing 

Tother  man's  ruin  ; 
Friends  with  friends  are  sparring 
Though  they  may  smile  and  fawn. 
Spurr'd  on  by  emulations, 

Tongues  are  engaging  ; 

Calumny,  raging, 
Murders  reputations 
Over  the  cards  at  dawn. 
Thus  with  burning  hate 
Each,  returning  hate, 
Wounds  and  robs  his  friends. 

In  civil  life 

Even  man  and  wife 
Squabble  for  selfish  ends. 


Jenny. 
man. 


Crush  me  !    He  really  is  a  mighty  pretty 


Morano.  Whatever  other  great  men  do,  I  love  to 

encourage  merit.  If  your  actions  answer  to  your 
speech,  my  lad,  your  fortune  is  made. 

Potty.  Sir,  if  I  stand  among  those  who  were  mus- 

tered by  the  famous  Captain  Macheath,  I  shall  be 
proud  to  serve  with  them  and  even,  if  necessary,  to 
fall. 

Jenny.  [Provocative}.     How  gallant  a  youth  !   Here 

indeed  is  a  rival,  husband. 

Morano.  Young  gentleman,   this  is  my  wife.     Dis- 

course with  her. 


3«  POLLY  [Acx  II. 

[Enter  VANDERBLUFF,  CULVERIN  and  OTHER 
PIRATES]. 

SCENE  VIII 

MORANO,  JENNY,  POLLY,  and  THE  PIRATES 
Vanderbluff.       Noble  Captain,  we  await  our  orders. 

Morano.             Gentlemen,  my  plans  are  laid.     If  diplo- 
macy should  fail  to  extract  the  enemy's  gold 

Pirates.  Blood  !    Blood  ! 

Morano.  We   will  hunt   them   into   the   sea.     But 

understand  me  perfectly.  I  will  not  command  a  mere 
rabble.  I  must  have  the  utmost  efficiency  ;  and  to 
that  end  I  shall  give  you  rank  and  authority  in  a 
descending  scale.  Lieutenant  Vanderbluff  is  your 
second-in-command.  Laguerre,  Hacker,  Culverin  and 
Capstern  shall  hold  rank  in  the  order  of  their  naming. 
Gentlemen,  not  a  step  must  you  advance,  not  a  ball 
must  you  fire,  without  an  order  from  the  officer  who 
is  immediately  above  you  ;  and  I  myself,  as  the  brain 
of  our  enterprise,  shall  issue  my  commands  to  the 
Lieutenant. 

Pirates.  Long  live  Morano  ! 

Air  XX 

Pirates.       By  bolder  steps  we  win  the  race. 

Let's  haste  where  danger  calls. 
Unless  ambition  mend  its  pace, 

It  totters,  nods  and  falls. 
We  must  advance  or  be  undone  : 
Think  thus,  and  then  the  battle's  won— 

With  a  fa  la  la,  &c. 

Morano.  I  shall  now  review  the  troops.     Jenny,  I 

leave  you  to  sift  this  young  gentleman  with  further 
questions. 


ACT  II.]  POLLY  39 

Vanderbluff.       Come,    noble    captain — take    one    hearty 
smack  upon  her  lips  and  then  steer  off. 


Air  XXI 

[While  MORANO  sings  this  air,   VANDER- 
BLUFF pulls  him  to  the  left,  JENNY  to  the  right]. 

Honour  calls  me  from  thy  charms :  [to  Jenny 

With  glory  my  bosom  is  beating. 
Victory  summons  to  arms  :    and  to  arms 
Let  us  haste,  for  we're  sure  of  defeating. 

One  more  look — and  then —  [to  Jenny 

Oh,  I  am  lost  again  ! 
What  a  power  has  beauty  ! 
Though  love  forbids  me,  I  must  away, 
For  honour  calls  and  I  must  obey.      [to  Vanderbluff 

Ah,  no,  no,  no —  [to  Jenny 

Pray  let  me  go  : 
Tis  war  claims  all  my  duty  ! 

[Exeunt  OMNES,     Curtain]. 


SCENE   IX 

[The  Pirates'  Camp.  A  tent,  left.  Moon- 
light. PIRATES  cross  the  stage  singing.  MORANO 
enters  tenf\. 

Air  XXII 

Pirates.  Brave  boys,  prepare  ! 

Now  battle  fires  the  soul. 
Forsake  the  blushing  fair, 
Forsake  the  genial  bowl. 

Let  fools  advance  and  fall 
For  love  of  empty  fame  ; 
Or  dare  the  cannon's  ball 
To  shield  their  country's  name. 


40  POLLY  [ACT  II. 

We  risk  a  warrior's  grave 
In  hope  of  wealth  untold. 
Let  honour  spur  the  slave  : 
We  fight  for  honest  gold. 

[Enter  JENNY  and  POLLY]. 


SCENE  X 

JENNY  and  POLLY 

Jenny.  Were  you  ever  in  love,  young  gentleman  ? 

Polly.  All   the   women   that   ever   I   knew  were 

mercenary. 

Jenny.  Then   a   generous   woman   can   the   more 

oblige  you.     Why  so  bashful,  young  spark  ? 

Polly.  [Aside].     I  must  put  on  a  bold  manner  or 

I  shall  be  discovered. — I  lost  my  impudence,  madam, 
with  my  fortune.     Poverty  keeps  down  assurance. 

Jenny.  I  am  a  plain-spoken  woman,  as  you  find, 

and  I  own  I  like  you. 


Air  XXIII 

Some  there  are  who  never  venture 
Where  it  is  not  safe  to  roam  ; 

Some  who,  signing  one  indenture, 
Never  seek  a  second  home. 

Let  them  bide  in  church  and  chapel  ; 

-•  Let  them  practise  what  they  preach. 
Must  we,  if  we  love  an  apple, 
Never  more  desire  a  peach  ? 

Polly.  Indeed,  madam,  I  know  you  do  but  rail/ 

me.     Respect  keeps  me  in  awe. 


ACT  II.]  POLLY  41 

Jenny.  By  your  behaviour  one  would  think  I  was 

your  wife  :  and,  that  being  so,  I  shall  take  her  freedom. 
[kisses  POLLY].'  Such  rallying,  my  dear,  deserves 
replication. 

Polly.  S'death,  ma'am,  I  am  man  enough  to  relish 
a  fine  woman's  lips,  and  I  can  repay  their  gifts  hand- 
somely, [kisses  JENNY].  If  I  am  too  rude 

Jenny.  A    woman    never    pardons    the    contrary 

fault. 


Air  XXIV 

We  never  flout  the  forward  swain 
Who  puts  us  to  the  trial. 

Polly.         I  know  you  first  would  give  me  pain, 
Then  baulk  me  with  denial. 

Jenny.        What  mean  we,  then,  by  being  tried  ? 

Potty.  With  scorn  and  slight  to  use  us. 

Most  beauties,  to  indulge  their  pride, 
Seem  kind  but  to  refuse  us. 

But,  madam,  report  says  that  you  were 
acquainted  with  the  great  hero  Macheath.  No  man 
in  whose  bosom  a  spark  of  courage  resides  can  fail  to 
thirst  for  news  of  him.  I  pray  you,  is  he  alive  ? 

Jenny.  Bless  me  !    you  have  not  a  scruple  of  love 

in  you.     You  stand  there  as  cool  as  a  cowcumber. 
As  for  Macheath — my  husband  has  hidden  him  away. 

Polly.  You  have  struck  a  damp  to  my  heart ! 

Have  I  taken  sen-ice  under  Macheath's  betrayer  ? 

Jenny.  What's    all    this    sideways    babble  ?     Go, 

monster  !    I  hate  you,  and  you  shall  find  that  I  can 
be  avenged. 

[Enter  MORANO,  right}. 


42  POLLY  [Aci  II. 

SCENE  XI 

JENNY,  POLLY  and  MORANO 
Morano.  What-a-vengeance  is  the  matter  ? 

Jenny.  Sure  never  was  such  insolence.     How  could 

you   leave  me   with   this  bawdy-house   bully  ?    An 
attempt  upon  your  wife  ! 

Morano.  [Calmly].     Tis  the  way  of  the  town,  Jenny. 

Come,  boy,  ask  pardon —  [aside  to  POLLY]  and  don't 
lose  hope. 

Jenny.  Oh  Morano,  I  hate  you  for  being  so  little 

jealous. 

Morano.  His  intentions  may  have  been  honourable. 

If  I  should  be  killed  in  the  battle,  'twere  well  to  be 
beforehand  with  a  likely  wife. 

Jenny.  If  you  are  so  easy  in  the  matter,  I  shall 

throw  off  my  harness. 

Air  XXV 

Jenny.        If  husbands  sit  unsteady, 

Most  wives  for  freaks  are  ready. 

Neglect  the  rein, 

The  mare  again 
Grows  skittish,  wild  and  heady. 

Morano.      She  might  indeed  unsettle 
A  lad  who's  not  in  fettle  : 
But  men  who've  shown 
They  can't  be  thrown, 
Prefer  the  mare  of  mettle  ! 

Polly.          And  he  who's  not  her  master 
May  meet  with  dire  disaster  : 

But,  quick  to  learn, 

Will  home  return, 
And  patch  his  head  with  plaster. 

[Enter  CAPSTERN,  right]. 


ACT  II.]  POLLY  43 

Morano.  Into    the    tent,    Jenny — [To    CAPSTERN] 

Corporal,  keep  a  watch  on  this  young  man.     I  need 
him. 

[Exit  MORANO,  right :  JENNY  goes  into  the  tent]. 


SCENE   XII 
POLLY  and  CAPSTERN 

Capstern.  Shrivel  me,  young  gentleman,  you  do  seem 

out  of  luck  with  the  world. 

Air  XXVI 

• 
Polly.  Virtue's  treasure 

Is  a  pleasure, 
Cheerful  even  amid  distress ; 

Nor  pain  nor  crosses, 

Nor  grief  nor  losses, 
Nor  death  itself  can  make  it  less : 

Here  relying, 

Suff'ring,  dying, 
Honest  souls  find  all  redress. 

Capstern.  A  man  of  honour  is  never  above  helping 

those  in  distress  ;   and,  if  you  desire  to  escape,  a  few 
guineas  will  work  wonders. 

Polly.  Oh  sir — take  all  that  I  have,  if  you  will  but 

deliver  me  from  this  camp. 

[SHE  gives  HIM  her  purse]. 

Capstern.  Hm.     Two  guineas  .    .    .  Where  will  you 

go? 

Polly.  To  the  Indians  ;    for  there  is  a  nobility  in 

these  savages  that  puts  our  countrymen  to  shame. 


44  POLLY  [Acx  II. 

Capstern.  Benevolence,  like  mine,  is  poorly  rated  by 

Morano's  crew  ;    and  if  they  find  you  missing,  'twill 
go  hard  with  me.     I'll  desert.     Come,  come  ! 

[Exeunt,  left.     Enter  VANDERBLUFF  pulling 
MRS.  TRAPES]. 

SCENE   XIII 
VANDERBLUFF  and  MRS.  TRAPES 

Mrs.  Trapes.  Stay — I  am  short  of  breath.  Fie  upon 
you,  Lieutenant !  Have  I  still  so  much  power  over 
the  heart  ? 

Vanderbluff.  You  are  here  as  one  of  the  enemy  spies. — 
Ho,  Morano  ! 

Mrs.  Trapes.  You're  a  strange  wicked  fellow,  Lieutenant. 
Pray  understand  that  a  distant  salute  is  all  I  will 
allow  before  the  ceremony. 

[Enter  MORANO,  right}. 

SCENE   XIV 

VANDERBLUFF,  MRS  TRAPES  and  MORANO 
Morano.  [Recognising  her}.     Thunder  and  lightning 

Vanderbluff.  A  spy,  noble  Captain.  She  keeps  am 
Academy  for  Young  Gentlewomen. 

Mrs.  Trapes.      Where  the  brave  are  ever  welcome. 

Morano.  You  shall  have  your    freedom,  madam — 

on  one  condition. 

Mrs.  Trapes.  Fie,  fie,  Captain  !  This  gallant  gentleman 
has  a  prior  claim. 

Air  XXVII 

Morano.  Madam,  alas,  I  am  wholly  undone, 

Since  the  ancient  tag  should  run 
"  Love  is  blind  to  all  but  one." 


ACT  II.]  POLLY  45 

Who  can  capture  his 
Heart  where  rapture  is  ? 
All  the  wittiest 
All  the  prettiest, 
Then  must  ogle  a  swain  in  vain. 

Madam,  I  am  in  the  toils  of  an  angelical 
urchin,  and  desire  to  be  rid  of  her.  Carry  off  the  wench 
when  the  battle  grows  hot,  and  I'll  pay  you  a  dozen 
pistoles. 

Vanderbluff.      Now,  Captain,  you  speak  like  a  gentleman. 
Morano.  [To  MRS.  T.]     Will  you  do  it  ? 

Mrs.  Trapes.      Begin  your  battle,  and  I'll  see  that  the 
enemy  shall  take  her  captive. 

Morano.  Excellent  creature  !    Make  sure  that  she 

is  captured.     Here  she  comes.     Look  well  at  her. 

[Enter  JENNY,  and  the  PIRATES,  right]. 


SCENE    XV 

MORANO,  MRS.  TRAPES,  JENNY,  and  the  PIRATES  excepting 
CAPSTERN 

Morano.  Jenny,  I  entrust  you  to  the  care  of  this  ad- 

mirable woman.     Obey  her  in  everything. 

Hacker.  Captain — the  enemy  has  cut  off  our  passage 

to  the  ship. 

Laguerre.  We  have  them  behind  us,  we  have  them 

before  us. 

Morano.  Then,  brothers,  it  is  Victory  or  Death  ! 

Vanderbluff.      Victory ! 


46  POLLY  [Acx  II. 

Morano.  For  the  present,  gentlemen,  consider  that 

the  music  of  war  requires  an  overture ;  and,  since  'tis 
impossible  to  enliven  the  heart  with  a  martial  strain 
if  the  belly  lacks  rum — pour  it  in  bumpers,  and  strike 
terror  into  these  savages  by  the  confidence  of  your 
song. 

Air  XXVIII 

Pirates'.  Laugh,  boys,  laugh  loud — 

And  a  fig  for  all  your  sorrow  : 

Drink,  boys,  drink  deep, 
And  the  Devil  take  to-morrow. 

Give  me  the  fellow 

Who  when  he  is  mellow 
Will  bellow  a  lively  fable  : 

And  then,  in  his  glory, 

Continue  the  story 
And  finish  it  under  the  table. 

Roar  us  a  chorus  : 

The  night  is  before  us, 
And  slowly  the  liquor's  mounting  : 

So  crack  me  the  seventh 

Or  maybe  eleventh, 
And  damn'd  be  he  who's  counting  ! 

CURTAIN 


ACT    III 


ACT    III 

SCENE  : — As  in  Act  Two,  the  Pirates  Camp.  By 
this  time,  however,  THEY  have  set  up  a  rude  barricade 
of  tree-trunks,  old  chairs,  etc.,  which  cuts  the  stage 
in  half,  and  in  the  course  of  the  action  THEY  confine 
themselves  to  the  right  of  the  stage.  The  light  is 
vague.  It  is  not  yet  dawn. 

Enter,  left,  POLLY,  still  in  her  disguise. 


SCENE   I 

POLLY 

Polly.  With  the  habit,  I  must  put  on  the  courage 

and  resolution  of  a  man  ;  for  I  am  everywhere  sur- 
rounded with  dangers.  The  Indians  indeed  have 
shown  themselves  kind  even  to  importunity,  but  it  is 
not  by  staying  with  them  that  I  shall  discover  my 
dear  Macheath.  How  restless  is  love  !  [Music,  two 
or  three  bars  of  the  Dead  March}.  My  imagination 
follows  him  everywhere :  would  my  feet  were  as 
swift  !  [two  or  three  bars  more].  Thought  is  even  now 
bewildered  in  pursuing  him.  How  sultry  a  night  I 
have  passed  !  I'm  tired,  I'm  faint. 

Air  XXIX 

Sleep,  O  sleep, 
With  thy  rod  of  incantation, 
Charm  my  imagination. 
Then,  only  then,  I  cease  to  weep. 

By  thy  power, 

The  virgin,  by  time  o'ertaken, 
For  years  forlorn,  forsaken, 
Enjoys  the  happy  hour. 

What's  to  sleep  ? 
Tis  a  visionary  blessing  ; 
A  dream  that's  past  expressing  ; 
Our  utmost  wish  possessing  ; 

So  may  I  always  keep. 

[SnE/a//s  asleep.     Enter  right,  MORANO  and 
MRS.  TRAPES,  the  latter  in  a  passion]. 


50  POLLY  [Acx  III. 

SCENE   II 
MORANO  and  MRS.  TRAPES  :    POLLY  asleep 

Morano.  Hark  you,  Mrs.  Trapes — I  design  to  execute 

a  retreat.  The  enemy  will  drive  us  from  our  camp 
here.  They  will  start  in  pursuit.  At  that  instant, 
show  yourself  with  Jenny,  and  feign  to  be  a  couple  of 
trembling  pigeons.  They  will  then  capture  you  and, 
who  knows  ?  you  may  be  able  to  dispose  of  the  wench 
to  Mr.  Ducat. 

Mrs.  Trapes.  Sure,  sir,  though  you  are  dusky  there's 
many  of  the  sex  would  think  you  mighty  handsome. 
You  should  be  thinking  of  a  better  marriage.  If  only 
I  could  discover  where  Polly  Peachum  has  wan- 
dered ! 

Morano.  Polly   Peachum — here    on     this    island  ? 

Bring  her  to  me,  Mrs.  Trapes,  and  Morano  shall  prove 
that  he  can  act  like  a  gentleman. 

Mrs.  Trapes.     You  will  marry  her  honestly  ? 
Morano.  I  will  restore  her  to  Macheath. 

Mrs.  Trapes.  Fie,  fie  !  When  you  have  seen  her,  yovtr 
generosity  will  yield  to  a  warmer  sensation. 

Air  XXX 

Mrs.  Trapes.     Wait  until  you  spy  the  charmer  ; 

Wait  until  you  hear  her  speak. 
Had  you  even  Achilles'  armour, 

You  would  find  it  all  too  weak, 
Ding-a  ding-a  ding  ding  dong. 

Morano.  Madam,  though  her  eyes  be  killing, 

Honour  is  the  crown  of  life. 
Not  until  Macheath  is  willing, 
Can  she  be  Morano's  wife. 

Ding-a  ding-a  ding  ding  dong. 


ACT  III.]  POLLY  51 

Morano.  [bowing].     And  now,  Madam — farewell. 

Mrs.  Trapes.      What,  captain  !  Will  you  go  ?  Is  it  not  here 
that  the  battle  will  take  place  ? 

Morano.  The  battle  ?    Can  I  delay  for  such  trifle 

now  ?  What  is  war  by  comparison  with  woman  ? 
Dispose  of  Jenny  as  best  you  can.  Then  find  out 
Polly  :  and  when  the  battle  is  ended,  bring  her  here  ! 

[Enter  VANDERBLUFF]. 

SCENE  III 
POLLY  asleep,  MORANO,  MRS.  TRAPES  and  VANDERBLUFF 

Vanderbluff.       Noble  Captain — look,   look !    The  enemy 
are  about  to  take  up  their  position. 

Morano.  Lieutenant,  I  consign  the  leadership  of  my 

army  to  you. 

Vanderbluff.     To  me  ?    Will  you  not  fight  ? 

Morano.  I    have    greater    affairs    on    hand.     Polly 

Peachum  is  here,  here  on  this  island  :  and  I  go  to 
prepare  her  husband  for  the  joyous  encounter. — [To 
MRS.  TRAPES].  Madam,  I  swear  by  my  courage  as  a 
soldier  that  when  next  you  set  eyes  upon  Morano  you 
shall  also  set  eyes  upon  the  missing  hero — the  incom- 
parable Captain  Macheath  ! 

Air  XXXI 

Morano.      Though  different  passions  rage  by  turns, 

The  nobler  passion  sways  me  ; 
For  still  my  thirst  of  battle  burns 

But  Cupid's  net  delays  me  : 
The  scarlet  coat,  the  bugle's  note, 

Are  toys  that  youth  may  treasure, 
But  when  we're  grown,  'tis  love  alone 

Can  give  us  a  constant  pleasure. 

[Exit]. 


52  POLLY  [ACT  III. 

SCENE   IV 
POLLY  asleep,  MRS.  TRAPES  and  VANDERBLUFF 

Vanderbluff.  Sharks  and  whales,  how  he  scuds  before  a 
petticoat ! 

Mrs.  Trapes.  [Languishing  on  VANDERBLUFF].  Ah, 
lieutenant  !  The  brave  are  always  amorous. 

Vanderbluff.  [Throwing  HER  off].  Perish  my  liver, 
Madam — this  is  no  time  for  flim-flam.  War  first  and 
woman  after 

Mrs.  Trapes.     Ah  ... 

Vanderbluff.  That's  the  rule  with  Theodore  Vanderbluff  : 
and,  brand  me,  if  I  don't  take  Jenny  Diver  aboard, 
when  we've  scuttled  the  enemy.  She's  there  in  the 
tent.  Look  to  her.  Here  come  the  Indians.  Away  ! 

[Exit,  right.  MRS.  TRAPES  goes  into  the 
tent.  Enter  POHETOHEE,  CAWWAWKEE,  and 
the  INDIANS]. 

SCENE   V 
POLLY  asleep,  POHETOHEE,  CAWWAWKEE,  and  the  INDIANS 

Cawwawkee.  [To  POHETOHEE,  seeing  POLLY].  Why,  sir, 
there  he  is — worn  out  with  fatigue. 

[CAWWAWKEE  wakes  POLLY]. 

Polly.  Does  the  battle  already  begin  ? 

Cawwawkee.  Honoured  father,  this  young  gentleman 
has  shown  himself  so  candid  and  so  honourable 
that  I  beg  you  to  recognise  and  reward  his  merit. 

Pohetohee.  [To  POLLY].  Indeed,  sir,  I  shall  study  to 
honour  you  as  you  deserve.  Have  you  a  wife,  young 
gentleman  ? 

Polly.  Why  no,  sir ;    and  if  I  should  fall  in  the 

battle  I  shall  not  be  mourned. 


ACT  III.]  POLLY  53 

Pohetohee.  Then,  sir,  you  shall  permit  me  to  supply 
your  deficiency.  I  perceive  that  you  have  no  preju- 
dice against  our  colour  ;  and,  though  lemon-posset 
and  pomatum  will  not  turn  her  complexion  to  cream, 
you  shall  find  my  daughter  a  most  amiable  maiden. 
I  offer  you  her  hand. 

Polly.  Great  chief,  were  it  possible 

Cawwawkee.       Do  not  cross  my  father.     He  is  choleric. 

Pohetohee.  Understand,  boy — we  are  a  proud  race 
and  will  not  stomach  affronts. 

Polly.  Now  indeed  I  am  undone.     Oh  that  I  could 

discover  my  Macheath  ! 

[Enter   VANDERBLUFF    and   the   PIRATES, 
right}. 

SCENE  VI 
POLLY,    the    INDIANS,    VANDERBLUFF    and    the    PIRATES 

Air  XXXII 

Pirates.  For  all  his  pain, 

The  fish  in  vain 

May  nose  the  net  that  traps  him. 
The  angler  smiles 
Upon  his  wiles, 
And  in  the  wallet  claps  him. 

When  bitter  foes 

In  war  oppose, 
The  stronger  may  be  prouder  ; 

But,  if  he  will, 

The  weaker  still 
May  save  at  least  his  powder. 

[The  opposing  ARMIES  prepare  for  the  battle}. 

Pohtiohee.  Soldiers,  remember  that  in  battle  we  should 
exhibit  the  fearlessness  of  free  men,  but  that  in  the 
hour  of  victory  we  should  consider  that  the  enemy 
shares  our  common  humanity.  In  attack,  be  reso- 
lute :  in  pursuit,  be  merciful.  Soldiers — advance 
with  prudence  ! 


54  POLLY  [ACT  III. 

Air  XXXIII 

Women  of  the  Town.     Men  are  but  frail. 

What  cares  woman 
Who  shall  prevail  ? 

All  are  human. 
Though  we  may  never  be 

Ruled  by  reason, 
Beauty  will  ever  be 

Fruit  in  season. 

See  how  they  quake ! 
See  their  pallor  ! 

Nothing  can  shake 
Indian  valour. 
Forward  and  shatter  them, 

Death-defying  ! 
Scatter  them  scatter  them  ! 

See  them,  flying  ! 

Pohetohee.          Scatter  them,  scatter  them  ! 

[The  INDIANS  rush  the  barricade  and  put 
the  PIRATES  to  rout.  POLLY  is  slightly  wounded. 
Exeunt  PIRATES,  right,  followed  by  INDIANS]. 

SCENE  VII 
POLLY,  CAWWAWKEE,  POHETOHEE,  and  INDIANS 

Cawwawkee.       Look,    look — the   young   Englishman   has 
fallen. 

Polly.  Tis  nothing,  sir.     This  was  my  first  engage- 

ment and  my  first  wound  ;  but  as  I  have  survived 
the  one  I  can  support  the  other.  I  endure  a  more 
inward  hurt. 

[CAWWAWKEE  binds  up  her  hand}. 

Polly.  Air  XXXIV 

As  sits  the  sad  turtle  alone  on  the  spray, 

Her  heart  sorely  beating, 

Sad  murmur  repeating, 
Indulging  her  heart  for  her  consort  astray  ; 
For  force  or  death  only  could  keep  him  away. 


ACT  III.]  POLLY  55 

Now  she  thinks  of  the  fowler,  and  every  snare  ; 

If  guns  have  not  slain  him, 

The  net  must  detain  him, 

Thus  he'll  rise  in  my  thoughts  every  hour  with  a  tear, 
If  safe  from  the  battle  he  do  not  appear. 

Pohetohee.          Remove  him  to  safety. — Soldiers,  dismantle 
the  barricades. 

[CAWWAWKEE  leads  out  POLLY,  left.    Enter, 
left,  DUCAT  and  his  Two  FOOTMEN]. 


SCENE  VIII 

POHETOHEE,   INDIANS,   DUCAT,   Two  FOOTMEN   and 
WOMEN  OF  THE  TOWN 

Air  XXXV 

Ducat.  When  horns  with  cheerful  sound 

Proclaim  the  active  day  ; 
Impatience  warms  the  hound, 
He  burns  to  chase  the  prey. 
Thus  to  the  battle  did  we  go,  &c. 

Footmen.  Thus  to  battle  did  we  go,  &c. 

Ducat.  How  charms  the  trumpet's  breath  ! 

The  brave,  with  hope  possessed, 
Forgetting  wounds  and  death, 
Feel  conquest  in  their  breast. 

Footmen.  Thus  to  battle  did  we  go,  &c. 

Ducat.  Come,  boys  !    We  must  crown  our  victory 

with  a  massacre  of  the  vermin. — [To  POHETOHEE] 
For  shame,  chieftain — will  you  halt  here  in  sloth  ? 
I  am  with  you — fear  nothing  !  Pursue,  pursue  ! 

Pohetohee.          Lead  on,  Colonel. 


56  POLLY  [ACT  III. 

Ducat.  Hurry,  hurry  !    I  and  my  troops  will  sup- 

port you,  and  prevent  your  men  from  turning  tail. 

Pohetohee.          [To  his  MEN].     Advance  ! 

[HE  and  the  remaining  INDIANS  run  out, 
right.  DUCAT  and  the  FOOTMEN  delay.  THEY 
discover  the  liquor  left  by  the  pirates.} 

SCENE   IX 
DUCAT  and  the  FOOTMEN 

Ducat.  Boys,   'twas  a  stubborn   battle,  and    you 

deserve  some  relaxation.     A  mere  pursuit  can  be  left 
to  the  savages. 

[THEY  drink}. 

[Enter  from  the  tent,  MRS.  TRAPES  and 
JENNY  with  extreme  caution}. 

SCENE   X 
DUCAT,  Two  FOOTMEN,  MRS.  TRAPES  and  JENNY 

Mrs.  Trapes.     Softly,  child.     Not  a  word,  not  a  cough — 
or  they  will  take  us  prisoner. 

[MRS.  TRAPES  has  a  fit  of  coughing]. 
Ducat.  Who's  that  ? 

Jenny.  Lud,  ma'am — the  enemy.     Fly  ! 

Mrs.  Trapes.     'Tis  useless,  Jenny.     We  must  make  the 
best  terms  we  may. 

Ducat.  Mrs.  Trapes  !   Infamous  cozener  ! 

Mrs.  Trapes.     Sure,   sir,   you   will   not   make   two  poor 
females  your  prisoners  ? 

Ducat.  [Seeing  JENNY].     Here's  a  buxom   belle. 

Boys — seize  her  ! 

Jenny.  Spare  me,  spare  me  ! 


ACT  III.  POLLY  57 

Mrs.  Trapes.  We  will  come  peaceably,  Mr.  Ducat,  if  you 
respect  our  modesty.  And  because  Polly  proved  but 
a  poor  bargain,  I'll  let  you  have  this  one  cheap. 

Ducat.  A  victorious  general  does  not  pay  for  his 

prisoners. 

Air  XXXVI 

A  general  after  the  fight  may  rejoice 

And,  viewing  the  enemy's  line, 
May  take  of  their  loveliest  women  his  choice 

And  call  for  the  best  of  their  wine — their  wine, 
And  call  for  the  best  of  their  wine. 

Mrs.  Trapes. 

What  man  with  a  heart  in  his  bosom  could  take 

Her  kitten  away  from  a  cat  ? 
And  when  a  poor  soul  has  her  living  to  make, 

Sure,  who  would  deprive  her  of  that  ?  Poor  thing ! 
Sure,  who  would  deprive  her  of  that  ? 

Ducat.  Enough,  Mrs.  Trapes.     You  shall  not  have 

a  penny-piece  for  the  girl.     She  will  rank  with  my 
slaves. 

Jenny.  I'll    never    submit    to    barbarous    usage. 

How  d'ye  do,  sir  ! 

[SHE  slaps  DUCAT'S  face}. 

Mrs.  Trapes.  She  is  never  tractable  but  when  she  is  with 
me.  Come,  Colonel,  I'll  not  be  extortionate. 

Ducat.  [To    ist    FOOTMAN].     March    this    hussy 

before  me. 

Mrs.  Trapes.  [To  2nd  FOOTMAN].  And  you,  sir,  shall 
march  me. 

Ducat.  Leave  her.     She's  a  dried  orange. 

[Exeunt    DUCAT,    FOOTMEN    and    JENNY. 
Enter  POLLY  left]. 


58  POLLY  [ACT  III. 

SCENE  XI 
MRS.  TRAPES  and  POLLY 

Polly.  Oh  Madam,  sure  heaven  must  have  directed 

my  steps. 

Mrs.  Trapes.  Why,  lad,  what's  the  matter  ?  You  are 
too  late  :  I've  lost  her. 

Polly.  Pohetohee,    the    great    Indian    chief,    has 

offered  me  the  hand  of  his  daughter. 

Mrs.  Trapes.     She  is  monstrous  rich.     Marry  her. 
Polly.  Indeed,  madam,  I  cannot. 

Mrs.  Trapes.  Overcome  your  repugnance,  young  man. 
There's  many  a  couple  that  hate  each  other  heartily 
and  yet  lead  very  comfortable  genteel  lives. 

Polly.  Madam,  can  you  not  divine  the  cause  of  my 

distress  ? 

Air  XXXVII 

With  sad  emotion 

Across  the  ocean 
I  fared  to  seek  my  heart's  desire. 

Oh  pray,  believe  me 

And  thus  reprieve  me — 
I  am  Miss  Polly  in  boy's  attire. 

Mrs.  Trapes.     Polly  ?  What  trumped  up  story  is  this  ? 

Polly.  I  hope,   Madam,   you  have  too  good  an 

opinion  of  me  to  imagine  me  capable  of  telling  a 
falsehood.  Alas,  'tis  true — I  am  indeed  the  unhappy 
Polly. 

[SHE  removes  her  hat  and  wig}. 

Mrs.  Trapes.     Heaven  stay  me  ! 

[SHE  takes  a  drink}. 
Potty.  But  Madam,  what  shall  Ifdo  ? 


ACT  III.]  POLLY  59 

Mrs.  Trapes.  I  wonder  at  your  lack  of  decorum,  child. 
If  he  could  see  you  so  immodestly  tricked  out,  your 
poor  papa  would  blush  in  his  grave. 

Polly.  Under  a  cactus  close  at  hand,  I  have  a 

bundle  containing  my  proper  clothes. 

Mrs.  Trapes.  Go,  hussy — you  must  change  your  habili- 
ments if  only  for  the  good  name  of  your  family.  Fie, 
fie  !  here  comes  a  man.  Quick  !  into  the  cactus  ! 

[Exit,  POLLY.     Enter,  VANDERBLUFF]. 


SCENE   XII 
MRS.  TRAPES  and  VANDERBLUFF 

Vanderbluff.  Let  him  drown  in  fifty  fathoms — the  villain, 
the  rascal,  the  giddy  shuttlecock  !  Plague  take  him  ! 
Here  we  are — a  defeated  remnant — and  all  by  his 
refusal  to  take  part  in  the  battle.  Mrs.  Trapes,  'tis 
you  are  to  blame — you  plotter,  you  meddler,  you 
busybody  ! 

Mrs.  Trapes.  Oh,  Lieutenant,  how  can  you  rail  at  me 
thus  ?  We  are  not  yet  married. 

Vanderblnff.  Nor  ever  shall  be  !  If  Polly  is  indeed  on  the 
island,  why  need  you  have  told  Macheath  ? 

Mrs.  Trapes.  Macheath  ?  I  have  never  seen  the  Captain 
since  the  day  when  he  was  reprieved  from  the  gallows. 

Vanderbluff.  Zounds,  ma'am,  I  had  thought  you  had 
more  perspicacity.  By  the  amorousness  of  his  dis- 
position you  might  have  detected  that  Morano  was  no 
other  than  Macheath  in  disguise. 

Mrs.  Trapes.  Is  it  possible  ?  Then,  in  restoring  Polly  to 
his  arms,  I  am  merely  reuniting  a  husband  and  wife. 


60  POLLY  [Acx  III. 

Vanderbluff.  Madam,  I  feel  for  you  ;  but  on  this  occasion 
you  must  content  yourself  by  assisting  the  cause  of 
virtue.  As  for  gold,  Mrs.  Trapes,  I  will  see  that  your 
pocket  is  well  lined  if  you  will  console  me  for  the  loss 
of  a  battle  by  the  gain  of  a  wife. 

Mrs.  Trapes.      Now,  now,  sir  ! 

Vanderbluff.  I  speak  of  Jenny  Diver.  Tis  a  pretty 
urchin,  and — swallow  me  whole — I'll  marry  her. 
Where  have  you  bestowed  the  hussy  ? 

Mrs.  Trapes.     She  is  gone  off  with  Mr.  Ducat  .    .    . 

Vanderbluff.  Let  me  get  at  him  !  By  the  Great  Horn 
Spoon,  I'll  blow  off  his  top-gallant ! 

[Enter  MRS.  DUCAT], 

SCENE   XIII 
MRS.  TRAPES,  VANDERBLUFF  and  MRS.  DUCAT 

Mrs.  Ducat.  Where's  my  husband  ?  Where's  Mr.  Ducat? 
Inform  me  instantly,  or  I'll  have  a  fit  of  the  vapours. 

Mrs.  Trapes.      He  is  gone  off  with  Jenny  Diver. 

Vanderbluff.  Mrs.  Ducat,  you  come  in  the  nick.  We 
must  part  'em. 

Mrs.  Ducat.  I'll  pack  her  to  the  House  of  Correction. 
I'll  have  her  set  on  the  ducking-stool. 

Vanderbluff.       Yare,  ladies,  yare  !    Here  they  come,  with 
a  fair  wind  behind  them — and  black  weather  ahead. 
[Enter  DUCAT  and  JENNY]. 

SCENE   XIV 

MRS.  TRAPES,  VANDERBLUFF,  MRS.  DUCAT,  DUCAT  and 

JENNY 

Mrs.  Ducat.       Well,  husband,  well  ? 

Jenny.  Oh  lud,  sir — your  wife  !  Where  shall  I  flee  ? 


ACT  III.]  POLLY  61 

Vanderbluff.  Tack  for  shore,  Jenny.  Here's  a  good 
breakwater  ! 

[HE  offers  HER  the  protection  of  his  arm]. 

Mrs.  Ducat.  Mr.  Ducat,  sir,  I'll  not  hear  a  word  from 
you.  Were  there  any  other  magistrate  on  the  island, 
I'd  have  you  put  in  the  stocks  for  this.  First  Polly, 
now  Jenny 

Ducat.  Stop  your  clack,  wife.  Can  you  not  see 
that  I  have  busied  myself  in  finding  a  husband  for 
Jenny  ?  As  for  Polly 

Mrs.  Trapes.  As  for  Polly,  Mrs.  Ducat,  I  will  shortly  effect 
a  match  for  her  too.  I  have  discovered  Captain 
Macheath. 

Ducat.  Macheath  ?    Then  indeed  we  must  assauge 

him  with  Polly  or  he'll  gather  the  pirates  again  and 
ruin  the  country.  Believe  me,  wife,  I  have  now 
executed  the  last  caper  of  youth.  From  this  moment 
I  abjure  the  modes  of  the  age  ;  and  henceforth  you 
may  trust  me  entirely. 

Mrs.  Ducat.  What,  sir  ?  I'd  not  trust  you  with  an 
Ethiop  ! 

Air  XXXV 111 
Mrs.  Ducat. 

I  know  your  ways  are  foxey, 

And  yet  I'll  have  you  tame,  sir  : 
I'll  not  endure  your  doxy 

Though  you  may  have  no  shame,  sir. 
Though  lewdness  be  the  fashion, 

I  say  I'll  not  endure  her. 
However  hot  your  Jenny's  passion, 

A  ducking-stool  will  cure  her  ! 

Mrs.  Ducat,  Ducat,  Jenny,  Vanderbluff  and  Mrs.  Trapes. 

Since  marriage  first  existed 

'Twas  ever  vain  to  wrangle  ; 
But  where  the  strands  are  twisted 

A  knife  will  cut  the  tangle. 


62  POLLY  ACT  III. 

The  law  needs  many  a  guinea, 

And  then  'tis  oft  repented  : 
But  find  another  swain  for  Jenny 

And  all  may  be  contented. 

Ducat.  Stay  !  I  am  Colonel  of  Militia,  Magistrate 
of  the  Island  and  Sole  Representative  of  His  Majesty 
King  George.  I  have  had  enough  of  war  :  I  intend  to 
reduce  this  country  to  peace.  I  have  had  enough  of 
women 

Mrs.  Ducat.       What,  sir  ?    What  ? 

Ducat.  Madam,    we   can   never   have   enough   of 

divinities. — Mrs.  Trapes,  if  indeed  you  know  where  to 
find  her,  seek  out  Polly. 

Mrs.  Trapes.  I'll  bring  her.  Oh,  Mr.  Ducat,  I  have  done 
my  best  for  this  island,  but  there  it  is — men  will  slip 
back  into  virtue. 

[Exit]. 

VanderUuff.  Mr.  Ducat,  sir,  I  take  you  at  your  word. 
See  where  the  Indians  approach.  Make  peace  between 
us.  We  demand  nothing  but  provisions  for  our 
journey  to  Spithead.  As  for  the  gold  of  the  Indies — 
here  is  my  Mexico  ! 

Jenny.  And  you,  after  all,  her  Emperor  ! 

Ducat.  Go — summon    your    men,    and    bring    in 

Macheath. 

VanderUuff.       Aye,  aye,  sir.     Come,  Jenny. 

[Exeunt  VANDERBLUFF  and  JENNY,  right. 
[Enter  left,  POHETOHEE  and  the  INDIANS]. 

SCENE  XV 
MRS.  DUCAT,  DUCAT,  POHETOHEE  and  INDIANS 

Ducat.  Pohetohee,  henceforth  you  need  have  no 

fears.  I  have  broken  the  power  of  the  pirates  ;  and 
for  your  endeavours  to  help  me  in  subduing  them, 
I  shall  make  you  a  suitable  reward.  Your  race,  I 


ACT  III.]  POLLY  63 

know,  is  mighty  partial  to  ceremonials  and  festivities. 
Line  up  your  braves  ;  and  we  will  show  you,  in  some 
sort,  an  European  marriage. 

[POHETOHEE  martials  his  men  into  an 
avenue  that  runs  diagonally  from  the  left  back  of 
the  stage  to  the  front  centre.  The  PIRATES  enter, 
led  by  JENNY,  and  form  a  corresponding  diagonal 
on  the  other  side.  Enter,  MORANO  followed  by 
VANDERBLUFF.  THEY  proceed  down  the  path 
between  the  Pirates.  Enter  MRS.  TRAPES  fol- 
lowed unwittingly  by  Polly.  THEY  proceed  down 
the  path  between  the  Indians]. 


LAST  SCENE 
OMNES 

Polly.  [Halting].     Morano  ?     Not    Morano !     I'll 

never  owe  duty  to  a  nigger. 

Morano.  Come,  Polly,  see — I  have  scoured  myself 
white.  Sure,  hussy,  you  cannot  forget  your  ever- 
faithful 

Polly.  Macheath ! 

[THEY  embrace.     Cries  of  "  Morano  "  and 
"  Macheath  "1. 


Air  XXXIX 
Morano  and  Polly. 

Love  that  sorrowed  and  smarted 
May  yet  have  happily  started. 
Sweet  it  is  to  have  parted, 

If  in  the  end  we  join. 
Now  shall  I  love  you  yearly 

Dearly  ; 
Now  shall  our  life  go  daily 

Gaily. 

O  may  the  flame  divine 

Burn  in  your  breast  like  mine 


64  POLLY  [ACT  III. 

Air  XL 

Omnes.        These  twain,  linked  forever, 
Evil  fate  shall  no  more  sever. 
Time  flies  :    now  or  never, 

Take  your  full  delight. 
What's  life  ?    Tis  a  season 
Made  for  rapture,  not  for  reason. 
Grave  looks  are  but  treason 

'Gainst  a  lover's  right. 

Troubles  deceive  us  ; 

All  that  is  grievous 
Time  will  for  sure  destroy. 

Memory  measures 

Only  the  pleasures, 
Only  the  hours  of  joy. 

FINIS 


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